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Highlights from Previous Speakers

May 5, 2015: Peyton Dixon & Steve Edenbo

“We Disagreed as Rational Friends”– a debate between John Adams and Thomas Jefferson

Photo courtesy of Jennifer McMenamin, Valley Forge NHP

Almost two hundred people filled the theater of
Valley Forge National Historical Park on a beautiful
May evening as John Adams (portrayed by Peyton Dixon)
and Thomas Jefferson (portrayed by Steve Edenbo)
engaged in a fascinating, spirited debate
over some of the important issues relevant to the
founding of a new nation. The audience, very much
caught up in the spirit of the evening, asked
probing questions, then adjourned to the Visitors
Center for a delightful reception to continue the
discussion with our second the third Presidents.

During the debate, these two great men of the 18th
century recalled their bumpy collaboration on the
Declaration of Independence, for they parted ways on
its final content and even the appropriate date for
commemorating American independence. (Adams argued
for July 2; Jefferson favored July 4.) The gentlemen
also clashed on what should be in the Constitution,
and Jefferson declared that it should be rewritten
every generation. (Adams did not.) In a rare moment
of accord, both stated they found the office of
President of the United States to be difficult and
decried the assault of the press on those who held
the office. But they did disagree on the term of
office for the Presidency. While Jefferson argued
that no president should hold the office for more
than one term, Adams vigorously argued that no term
limits should be placed on the Presidency.

The lively and emotional debate was fueled by a
shared love of the United States, yet spiced with
opposing notions of how best to protect and foster
the new nation. At its core was the fundamental
difference between the two patriots: Adams believed
in a strong central government, while Jefferson
supported states’ rights. Jefferson, who served as
Adams’ vice-president, was particularly furious over
Adams’ approval of the Alien and Sedition Acts of
1798. The two former presidents detested each other
for years, but finally mellowed and began a
brilliant correspondence that lasted for fourteen
years.

Ironically, both Thomas Jefferson (then 82) and John
Adams (at the age of 90) died on July 4, 1826, Jefferson five hours
earlier than his “rival friend.”

This debate was sponsored by the
Sherrin H. and Bruce A. Baky Foundation, presented by The Friends of
Valley Forge Park and Washington Memorial Heritage, and hosted in
cooperation with the American Historical Theater (AHT).

Official registration & financial information of The Friends
of Valley Forge may be obtained from the Pennsylvania
Department of State by calling toll free, within PA,
1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.